Applications Open! 

We are looking for innovators, changemakers and systems thinkers to join our 2026 Exploration co-lab cohort. Would you like to join?

Learn more on how to apply for the Exploration Co-Lab 2026 Cohort: Edges of Possibility here.

The Exploration Co-Lab is Unearthodox’s answer to a critical gap in innovation: a space dedicated to systemic transformation. Unlike traditional incubation programmes that focus on incremental change to socio-environmental issues, this Co-Lab is designed to nurture regenerative solutions that restore balance to our social and ecological systems. 

Too often, we try to tackle global issues using the same systems that created those problems in the first place. It is time to move beyond the limitations of a capitalist growth model and explore new paradigms rooted in care, reciprocity and intergenerational equity.

Many innovators frequently feel isolated, navigating fragmented systems that struggle to support unconventional, cross-sector approaches. They face structural barriers like limited networks, resistance to disruptive thinking, and a lack of allies.

The Co-Lab is designed to address these challenges by building a new model of support—one that embraces risk, fosters radical collaboration, and champions regenerative principles.

In its current phase, the Co-Lab is working with bold systems innovators who are redefining how we live, work, and coexist with nature. The programme is built as a two-fold support system, offering:

• Deep allyship to help innovators navigate entrenched systemic barriers and cultivate resilience.
• Resources to refine, test, and scale regenerative solutions that address root causes and create lasting impact.

The programme itself was co-created with our inaugural cohort of seven innovators, ensuring it reflects the needs and aspirations of those driving change.

• Inaugural Cohort of Innovators: Seven bold systems innovators developing transformative ideas to create lasting social and environmental impact. Meet the innovators:

• Critical Minds: A global group of experts and collaborators who will provide support across the three levels of intervention — playing a vital role both as connectors and enablers.

• Coaches: Specialists who offer strategic support and mentorship to enhance the impact and development of innovators and their work.

• Current Insights and Research partner: In collaboration with the Post-Growth Institute, we are conducting groundbreaking research into new incubator and accelerator models that move beyond capitalist frameworks to embrace regenerative and equitable approaches.

Along with addressing current challenges in innovation, the Exploration Co-Lab also taps into several key opportunities that are crucial for driving transformative change. Here’s what makes it unique:

• Rising Demand: Our initial research indicates that innovators are seeking spaces to tackle complex, interconnected challenges in ways that prioritise regeneration over extraction.
• Empowering Innovators, not just ideas: While many incubation programmes mainly focus on the technical development of ideas, the Co-Lab will nurture the growth of innovators as individuals by:
  • Helping innovators build their personal brand so they are recognised not just as innovators but as change makers.
  • Enabling them to reflect on their positionality, biases and blind spots so they do not unintentionally reinforce the same systems that they seek to change.
  • Equipping them with tools to communicate their bold ideas effectively, crafting narratives that inspire action and bring diverse stakeholders along in their mission.
•  Depth Over Scale: The Co-Lab will foster deep, purposeful relationships over superficial connections, fostering a community rooted in trust and shared purpose.
• Connecting the Dots: By addressing the systemic nature of global challenges, the co-lab will create holistic solutions that bridge sectors and disciplines.

1. Join Our Next Exploration Co-Lab Cohort! We’re currently accepting rolling applications for the next cycle of our Exploration Co-Lab and are eager to connect with bold innovators, changemakers, and systems thinkers ready to explore new possibilities for the future. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you through this form.

2. In partnership with the Post-Growth Institute, we’re exploring pioneering models for incubators and accelerators that move beyond traditional capitalist frameworks, embracing regenerative, equitable approaches to innovation and enterprise. 

Stay tuned for our full report, which will be published here soon.

Whether you are an innovator, partner, funder, or curious mind, there is a place for you here. 

We would be delighted to hear from you and explore areas of mutual interest. We look forward to working with you and being part of the change we want to see together.

Get in touch at info@unearthodox.org.